Options for Birth

http://online.indianagazette.com/articles/2010/07/13/a_news/10047545.txt

There are many options for giving birth. You may want a medical atmosphere, like in a hospital, or you may choose to give birth at home or at a freestanding birth center. You might want to give birth in warm water. You can choose to use an epidural, or go through the process without any medication.

Some women use hypnosis, deep relaxation or music to help them relax and cope. Some choose to move around during labor. You can give birth lying down, squatting, or on your hands and knees.

The majority of births take place in hospitals. The medical model of birth can be very reassuring to some people, and distressing to others. Hospitals provide the best access to emergency care if needed.

Freestanding birth centers are more homey than hospitals, and are staffed with mid-wives. Studies have found that babies delivered by midwives have less fetal distress, meconium staining, birth injuries, and need for resuscitation. Also drug use is minimized, episiotomies are rare and C-section rates are reduced.

Home births are rare in the U.S. and statistics are scarce and controversial. A British study in 2009 found that for low-risk pregnancy, provided there is back-up transportation and support, home birth is as safe as hospital birth.

Labor support professionals, or doulas, attend births in all settings. Though a doula provides no medical services, she provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support for a birthing woman and her partner. Research shows improved birth outcomes and maternal satisfaction when a doula is present.

Giving birth is a profound experience and can be incredibly rewarding. Take the time to research and figure out what type of birth is best for you.